10/28/2012

BOOK :: New Crewel by Katherine Shaughnessy

Author Katherine Shaughnessy's definition of crewel embroidery is clear and easy to understand. She says, "Contrary to popular belief, what separates crewelwork from other forms of embroidery is not the stitches but the use of wool thread on linen fabric. That's it. Other types of embroidery may use silk or cotton threads on a myriad of fabrics, but crewel is just wool on linen."

The clarity and ease with which she writes is also evident in all sections of this highly inviting book as follows:

A thorough Basics section

24 fantastic motifs in the Gallery section

8 fun projects in the Projects section

Easy-to-understand color illustrations in the Patterns section

New Crewel is a high-quality book that has inspired me to scout my own supply of 2-ply wool thread, linen fabric, and hand embroidery needle to try my hand at this beautiful craft. Bravo to Shaughnessy for creating this wonderful book, which is a follow-up to her first book, The New Crewel.